5 Top Accommodation Options For Singles

In the modern world of travel, there are abundant accommodation options for solos, but since your choice of lodging can really impact your trip you need to choose wisely.

For some solos, comfort is the most important criteria while for others, it’s about the experience or opportunity to mingle with other guests.

Not all solo travellers are created equal so before you pull out the credit card, it’s worth thinking about what’s important to you when it comes to accommodation.

5 Accommodation Options For Singletons

Here are five accommodation options for you to think about when planning your next solo trip:

1. Hotels

For solo travellers who value privacy and comfort, hotels are the way to go. Travelling can be tiring and what better way to rejuvenate than a nice hot shower, throwing on a robe and chilling in the comfort of your private hotel room. If money is not an issue, then there’s nothing wrong with splashing out a little in a hotel for a good night’s rest. Hotels are easy to deal with and some come with added benefits like breakfast and gym access.

If you spend some time digging around for deals, you might be surprised to find how many affordable hotels are available. Last Minute is a great resource to start your research for cheap hotel deals or some luxury venues at rock-bottom prices if you’re in the mood for splurging out.

2. Bed & Breakfasts

One of the criticisms of hotels is that they often carry a sterile and business-like vibe. On paper, B&B’s could be considered a mini-hotel but most of them are run differently from a typical hotel. With B&B’s, you can expect a more homely attitude from your hosts, personally decorated rooms and home-cooked breakfasts. For the solo traveller, it’s a great way to experience a bit of home while on the road.

The Glen Isla House in Phillip Island, Australia is a great example of a classic B&B. Why stay in any generic place when you can combine your night of accommodation with a trip back in time by staying in gorgeous and cosy old houses like this.

3. AirBnB

Ever since its birth just a few years ago, Airbnb has grown exponentially and is now a legit option for solo travellers, particularly in large cities. The offer is affordable private rooms in the comfort of someone’s home. The real benefit of Airbnb is that it allows the solo traveller to experience what it’s like to live in a city as a resident rather than a visitor. Most places offer the use of their kitchen and laundry which are great ways to save money. As an added bonus, you may also get your own bathroom or some outside space like a garden or balcony.

If you want to experience a city through the eyes of a local, you really can’t beat an Airbnb lodging!

4. Inns

Inns are another fantastic option for solo travellers who want a bit of charm in their accommodation. While their prices are comparable to hotels, the attention to detail at a nice Inn is generally much greater than a stock standard hotels. Similar to B&B’s but usually bigger, Inns are perfect for those who want to spoil themselves and experience some magic and history. The only “downside” is that the room might be so beautiful that you don’t even want to leave!

The Heron House in Key West, Florida is a great example of a historic Inn. Located right in the heart of the historical district, this romantic house hosts up to 23 rooms and suites that are loaded with private balconies and decks with a French design.

5. Hostels

If you don’t mind sharing a dorm with other travellers, then hostels can also be a good option, especially if you are trying to save a few bucks. Hostels tend to attract long term travellers who are working with a tighter budget. While the quality of hostels have increased dramatically over the past ten years, the quality of service is generally much lower than that of a hotel.

For solo travellers who are keen to socialise, hostels are probably the best place to stay as most hostels offer “lounge” areas where travellers congregate and exchange travel stories.

To get started, head over to Hostelworld and plug in your destination city. If you take some time to explore your options, you might be surprised to find high-end hostels that are just as comfortable as a hotel but half the price. If sharing a dorm is too rough for you, don’t worry as most hostels these days have private rooms too.

Your accommodation options are one of the most important things to consider when planning a solo trip. While it can be intimidating, with a little bit of planning you will find that there are many choices available, even in smaller towns.

What kinds of places have you stayed in on your solo travels? Are there any accommodation options you favour over others? Please share your experiences in the comments below.

Comments

It very largely depends on where I am (which country etc), and how long I’m staying!

If I’m travelling at home (I’m in the UK), I’ll tend to favour B&Bs, or the rare pub-with-accommodation. Preferably the quirkier the better. If I can’t see anything suitable though, a soulless Premier Inn or Travelodge works just fine – I know what I’m getting and it’s not horrendously expensive.

Travelling abroad, I’m very much a budget backpacker, and will tend to aim towards backpacker hostels. They have the dual advantage of being cheap, but also a nice hub for information (both in and of themselves, and due to other backpackers passing through). The older I get the more comfortable I’ve become in doing this (at odds with most people!).

That said, my most recent trip was a week in Malta; it was a different sort of holiday (I wanted something more relaxing rather than going from place to place to place to place), so I had a week in an AirB&B -> one where I had the whole apartment to myself too. Definitely a good move for me at the time, was very chilled.

Plus, some places I visit, there are no hostels anyway -> I end up in the town’s only hotel or something. I’ve been known to couchsurf too …

Thanks for stopping by to comment! Yes, I totally agree… you’ve highlighted the importance of being flexible on your travels so you can find the right accommodation that meets your needs, your budget and the destination. Appreciate you adding your tips here too especially on the networking potential of hostels, and B&Bs and pubs as another affordable option alongside hostels in many countries but especially the UK, which I totally overlooked 🙂